Trump’s decision to withdraw US Troops From Syria shocks allies

A Kurdish-led alliance in Syria says President Donald Trump’s surprise decision to withdraw US troops will allow the Islamic State group to recover. A statement from the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) warned of a military vacuum that would leave the alliance trapped between “hostile parties”.

Mr Trump on Wednesday announced the withdrawal of US troops, saying IS has been defeated. However, major allies have disputed the claim. France said that ISIL had been weakened but not defeated, adding that French forces will remain in Syria “for now”.

The UK said much remains to be done, adding that even without territory, IS will remain a threat.

However, Russia and Turkey seemed to welcome this decision as it could allow them to advance their own plans in Syria. Russia, which backs the Syrian government, has welcomed Trump’s decision saying that the decision creates prospects for a political settlement in Syria.